The orchid mantid has been incredibly elusive in the pet trade. It is due to failed breeding and a ban on collection of wild specimen that contributes to its rarity. It is indeed a gem of the mantid kingdom. This infamous mantid lives up to its name like no other. It mimics the orchid flowers of its native origin and even the flower's color. Their color ranges from pink to white to red and even green. Each leg sports a semi-circular lobe that gives the mantid its petal-like appearance. When threatened, the orchid mantid will flatten itself and spread its lobed legs outward to make itself look like a flower. Adult males are white in color with brown markings and adult females are white with brown or green markings.